Posts for tag: orthotics

Almost every move in basketball relies on our feet. Basketball is a high-impact and physically demanding sport, and our feet are the foundation of any basketball players' game; whether it's running up and down the court, landing a free throw or a jump shot, our feet and ankles take a beating. Many injuries are from overuse to specific parts of our feet and ankles, or sudden trauma or fracture from the high demands of the game. Here at DM Foot and Ankle Associates, we can provide you with the knowledge, treatment and management of existing foot problems, exacerbated problems, or new ones that may arise.

Many of the pains and injuries sustained in basketball can be helped and prevented by proper conditioning. Stretching before and after playing, and weight lifting to strengthen the lower body muscles can help to reduce the likelihood of chronic and repetitive injuries. Every good exercise routine needs the proper support of our feet, which means finding the right shoes.

Shoes can go a long way in preventing sore or injured feet in basketball. The appropriate pair can help prevent ankle, foot, knee, leg and even hip and back pain. Shoes provide proper stability, flexibility and shock absorption, but remember, not every shoe was created equally. Athletes need the right shoe to handle the high demands of the specific game. Basketball footwear has a high cut designs to assist with ankle stability while jumping and side to side actions. Everyone has a unique foot shape, and sometimes shoes alone are not enough to support the athlete. A custom pair of orthotics will help to distribute body weight evenly, and correct any abnormalities in your feet, such as flat feet.

At DM Foot and Ankle, we understand that not every basketball players feet are the same, but the love for the game is. We cater our treatment protocol to you as an athlete. Treatments may include shoe counseling, prescription orthotics, exercises and taping of the foot and ankle, training regiments to strengthen foot and ankle muscles and tendons, and even surgery in acute injury or severe cases. Seek a consultation off or during the season, and let us help you play your best!

Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.

Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or athletic shoes. They are often made of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. They control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.

Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.

If you have never had custom orthotics, then make an appointment today to find out which type of orthotic is right for you. The process is simple, quick, and painless. You scan your foot on our digital scanner, we send the results in, and within no time your custom orthotics are ready for pickup!

Children's feet come in different shapes and sizes, with varying conditions and physical needs. Orthotics help to address those conditions and correct them in an easy, non-painful way. They can improve improper foot alignment during everyday activities that your child may be engaging in, such as walking and running. Orthotic can also improve the overall alignment of ankles, knees, hips, and spine.

Kids just two years and older can use orthotics for conditions including:

At DM Foot & Ankle we have both custom and prefabricated orthotic options for children. Proper foot care is essential for both foot comfort and overall health which is why it is important that as a parent, you address any issues your child may be experiencing. Here are a couple of tips for you and your child to protect your feet this summer!

Last week we told you how useful orthotics can be in dress shoes. This week we’re going to share how important orthotics are for athletic footwear.

While orthotics are interchangeable between most shoes, there are certain types that are made uniquely for one type of shoe. We can create orthotics especially for the sport of your choice, whether it is tennis, golf, soccer, running, or even ice skates. We can even make them waterproof.

Almost no one has the perfectly arched foot, and the stresses of impact activities can definitely damage your feet over time. Flat feet can become flatter, bunions can grow larger, and those with high arched feet can develop painful areas in the heels and balls of their feet.

This is where orthotics for the active person come in. In addition to correcting the biomechanical issues with your foot structure, orthotics add cushion and help with shock absorption. These can help you to perform at the best of your ability.

At DM Foot & Ankle, we create custom orthotics specific to your sport, whether you are a kid or an adult. If you don’t have a pair yet, stop by our office to get fitted!

One size does not fit all, especially when it comes to shoes. Even though you may be able to pick your shoe size at the store, you cannot pick your shoe shape. Since shoes are made for a “generic” foot shape and size, this is where orthotics or shoe inserts come in handy. Most feet differ in shape, arch, width, and bone structure, so the generic shoe can be painful or even harmful to your feet. This is why orthotics are so important, they can be beneficial to any and all people.

What is an orthotic?

An orthotic is a removable custom insole which provides pressure, relief, and shock absorption. Custom-made orthotics or pre-made shoe inserts are both commonly recommended for patients who are athletes, have diabetes, or many other foot issues including heel pain, flat feet, and bunions.

How can orthotics help me?

Orthotics offer a high level of comfort and pressure relief. Since your shoes are not made specifically for your feet, orthotics can help to provide arch support and structure support by stabilizing, aligning, and cushioning the bottom of your foot. They help to normalize the fold across your feet and ease pain.

How do I get orthotics?

You have two choices for arch supports; either pre-made or custom made. Pre-made supports are a great alternative with the right brand. They are not molded to your foot specifically but they can help with general foot issues. Custom orthotics can only be ordered by a medical professional. They are custom made to fit your individual feet and address a number of issues including gait and structure problems, pain in the heel or sole, hammertoes, and even calluses. These can be tailor made to a specific sport or shoe, even if it’s a stiletto!

If you have never used orthotics, call us today and make an appointment to get fitted for your own pair of custom orthotics!